LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — In response to the devastating mass shooting that injured multiple and killed four people at the Mad Butcher Grocery store on June 21, the Arkansas Community Foundation (ARCF) has established the Fordyce Survivors Fund.
The fund will provide direct aid and financial assistance to the families of the deceased, survivors, and all of those directly affected by this tragedy.
“Like so many, we are shocked and saddened by this terrible tragedy. A shooting isn’t something you want to plan for,” said Heather Larkin, president and CEO of the ARCF. “But we have gained experience in helping rebuild communities following other disasters over the years, and we work with partners that have vast experience in mass shootings. The death of four Arkansans and the recovery needs of the survivors gives us an unfortunate reason to put some of the lessons we’ve learned to use.”
Donations can be made online here or via mail to:
Arkansas Community Foundation
Attn: Fordyce Survivors Fund
5 Allied Drive, Suite 51110
Little Rock, AR 72202
Contributions to the fund will be distributed with guidance from the ARCF and a community-led steering committee of Fordyce residents and local leadership.
The ARCF's normal administrative fees will be waived and 100% of donations* will go towards supporting those directly affected. Qualifying charitable donations to this fund are tax-deductible. For donations made by credit card, a 3% fee will be applied.
“We are heartbroken at this senseless violence, right here at home,” said Sen. Matt Stone, District 2. “None of us ever imagined we would have to respond in the aftermath of a shooting in a peaceful town like Fordyce. But we’re determined to rally around this community to help it recover and heal. Working with the Community Foundation is an important step in that recovery.”
The ARCF has partnered with two other organizations, Victim's First and the Mass Violence Survivors Fund, which both have experience in providing support to victims and survivors of mass shootings.
To learn more, visit the ARCF's website here or contact Jessica Ford at (501) 372-1116 or jford@arcf.org
